Vitamin E - Vyxeos (Daunorubicin, Cytarabine) Interaction
Herbal: Vitamin E
Also Known As: Alpha-tocopherol, Beta-tocopherol, Delta-tocopherol, Gamma-tocopherol
Drug: Daunorubicin, Cytarabine
Brand names:
Vyxeos
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
Daunorubicin, Cytarabine is classified as belonging to the following category: Antitumor Antibiotics
Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin E might reduce the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
There's concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of antitumor antibiotic drugs such as doxorubicin, which generate free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin E have on chemotherapy involving antitumor antibiotics. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using vitamin E supplements, especially in high doses.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
- Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S.
- Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S.
Vitamin E Overview
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found naturally in a variety of foods, including vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables. Vitamin E is also available as a dietary supplement and is often added to skincare products.
Vitamin E has many roles in the body, including protecting cells from oxidative stress and supporting immune function.
Daunorubicin, Cytarabine Overview
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Daunorubicin and cytarabine lipid complex is used to treat certain types of acute myeloid leukemia (AML; a type of cancer of the white blood cells) in adults and children 1 year of age and older. Daunorubicin is in a class of medications called anthracyclines. Cytarabine is in a class of medications called antimetabolites. Daunorubicin and cytarabine lipid complex slows or stops the growth of cancer cells in your body.
Vitamin E - More Interactions
Vitamin E interacts with 742 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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